A piece of Nanaimo's history is getting spruced up this summer as the Quarterway Pub undergoes renovations.
In the past, miners headed to the establishment for a well-earned drink after toiling in the dark tunnels. Now people unwind after a hard day’s work or gather to watch hockey games or other sporting events.
The building was constructed by George Mitchell in 1879 and was originally the Talbot Hotel. It was one quarter of the way from Nanaimo to the Wellington mines and in 1887 was officially renamed the Quarterway Hotel.
Since 1989, Marty and Etanda Morelli have operated the pub, with their partner Beda Martin. Marty Morelli said the Quarterway is unique because it’s always been operated as a local watering hole.
“I don’t think you find that a lot,” said Morelli. “Some older customers over the years have said they used to remember when the horses would pull up.”
The building still has the original frame construction and the interior will undergo renovations, which are an estimated at $200,000. The pub will close starting June 19 and reopen June 29. There will be a grand opening event July 8, from 4-10 p.m.
The pub is also having a garage sale to sell furniture and other items, with proceeds benefiting Nanaimo Minor Hockey to support children who can’t afford equipment and fees.
Morelli said he’s always been involved in minor hockey and it’s important children have the opportunity to participate.
“It gives them the tools to grow up and be team players,” he said.
The garage sale is July 4, from noon to 3 p.m. at the pub, located at 1431 Bowen Rd.